Here we are, looking forward to celebrating a “Glorious Fourth,” the Independence Day of the United States of America. July 4, 1837, the citizens of Rockford celebrated with a cannon salute. The “cannon” was produced by drilling a large hole in a blacksmith’s anvil, filling it with powder, and firing. Not just once, but repeatedly. The noise was sufficient to satisfy the citizenry, who added the noise of their guns and pistols. A hickory liberty pole was erected on East State Street, with patriotic exercises held...